NORWALK, Conn. -- Norwalk attorney Emily Wilson has received the endorsement to be the Republican candidate in the 142nd Assembly District.

The seat for the district, which covers the western and northern parts of Norwalk and a portion of New Canaan, is open with the pending retirement of Rep. Larry Cafero. At the convention, Wilson gained the endorsement of Peter Nolin, Bill Dunne and Carol Andreoli from Norwalk, and James O’Hora, former chairman of the New Canaan Republican Town Committee.

Wilson, a graduate of St. John’s University School of Law, has practiced law in Norwalk for several years, representing small businesses, the elderly and estates. She is in her second term on the Norwalk Zoning Commission, where she is vice chair and former chair, and serves as the president of the board of directors for the Norwalk Senior Center.

"As a small business owner and advocate for seniors, Wilson understands the need to reduce the tax
burden on businesses and on families by fostering a state economy that promotes growth. Over the last two months, Wilson has met with constituents in New Canaan to understand their concerns on state wide issues," said a press release.

“What is clear in speaking with New Canaanites is that fiscal responsibility in Hartford is a top priority, which is a common feeling in Norwalk as well,” Wilson said.

Wilson announced to the convention delegates that her campaign committee had reached the fund-raising goals required to apply for a grant from the Connecticut Citizens’ Election Fund, according to the release.

After accepting the nomination, Wilson addressed the convention, thanking the delegates for their support and outlining the necessary steps to improve the state of Connecticut.

“We must ease regulations to make it easier to open a business in Connecticut. We must reduce the tax burden on families and businesses. We must rein in the state’s rate of spending that has outpaced even the highest tax hike in Connecticut’s history, and we must finally eliminate the inequity of education funding,” she said. “With determination, openness, and honesty, I am prepared to do everything I can to make Connecticut a place where we all can live, work and retire.”